South Lhonak Lake, located in the remote region of North Sikkim, India, is a glacial-fed lake formed by the retreat of the Lhonak Glacier. Nestled amidst towering Himalayan peaks, the lake is known for its pristine beauty and fragile ecosystem. In October 2024, I had the privilege of visiting South Lhonak Lake as part of an expedition with my professor, RAAJ Ramsankaran, and colleague, Navin Kumar. The primary goal of our expedition was to conduct a bathymetric survey to study the lake’s depth profile and volume, contributing valuable data for understanding its hydrology and potential glacial hazards. The journey to the lake was both arduous and exhilarating, involving rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions. Despite the challenges, the experience was immensely rewarding as we worked in one of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes, combining adventure with impactful scientific research.

The Samudri Tapu Glacier, located in the Chandra Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a magnificent yet challenging destination for scientific exploration. This glacier, a tributary of the Chandra River, is surrounded by towering peaks and rugged terrain, making it a significant site for glaciological and hydrological studies. In August 2024, I had the opportunity to visit the Samudri Tapu Glacier as part of a bathymetric survey conducted in collaboration with the NCPOR (National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research) team.

During the expedition, we stayed at the Himansh research station, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to high-altitude scientific research. The Himansh station provided a comfortable base for our operations amidst the challenging conditions of the glacier. Our work involved mapping the depth and morphology of glacial meltwater lakes, contributing to a better understanding of glacier dynamics and potential risks associated with glacial lake outbursts.

The expedition was a blend of rigorous scientific activity and awe-inspiring natural beauty. The stark, icy landscape of the Samudri Tapu Glacier, coupled with the satisfaction of contributing to critical research, made the trip both enriching and unforgettable.

The Gepang Gath Glacier, located in the Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh, is a striking glacial system that plays a critical role in the hydrology of the Chenab River. Known for its vast expanse of ice and surrounding rugged peaks, this glacier is a fascinating site for scientific research. During an expedition to the Gepang Gath Glacier, I participated in a bathymetric survey to study its glacial meltwater lakes, contributing valuable data toward understanding glacier dynamics and water resources in the region.

The expedition required navigating through challenging terrain, including moraines and glacial streams, which added an element of adventure to our scientific mission. The serene yet powerful environment of the Gepang Gath Glacier provided an extraordinary backdrop for our work. The research was aimed at mapping lake depths and understanding their geomorphology, essential for assessing potential glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) risks.

This journey was not only a scientific endeavor but also a deeply humbling experience, highlighting the fragility and importance of these icy giants in the Himalayan ecosystem. The expedition to the Gepang Gath Glacier was both intellectually rewarding and spiritually uplifting, offering a rare opportunity to work amidst the grandeur of nature.

Kya Tso, a serene high-altitude lake near the Baralacha Pass in Himachal Pradesh, is a stunning natural marvel surrounded by rugged Himalayan landscapes. In August 2024, I visited Kya Tso as part of a bathymetric survey conducted with the NCPOR (National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research) team. The survey aimed to map the lake’s depth and understand its geomorphological features, contributing to research on high-altitude water bodies and their role in the region’s hydrology.

The expedition involved traversing challenging terrains to reach the lake, which sits in an isolated and pristine environment. The tranquil blue waters of Kya Tso, framed by stark, arid mountains, created a breathtaking backdrop for our scientific activities. Despite the remote and demanding conditions, the opportunity to conduct fieldwork in such a unique setting was immensely fulfilling.

Our work provided insights into the lake’s dynamics, which are essential for understanding the impacts of climate change on Himalayan high-altitude ecosystems. The expedition to Kya Tso was not only a significant scientific endeavor but also a memorable experience that combined the thrill of exploration with the purpose of meaningful research.

The Panchi Nala Glacier, located in the Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh, is a remarkable glacial site known for its rugged terrain and pristine surroundings. In June 2024, I had the opportunity to visit this glacier as part of an IIT Bombay research expedition. Our team included Prof. RAAJ Ramsankaran and PhD candidates Sayantan Mandal and Tirthankar Ghosh, supported by a dedicated porter team of nine members.

The journey began at Deepak Taal, a serene lake that served as our starting point. The trek to Panchi Nala Glacier took us through challenging terrain, including river crossings, rocky paths, and glacial moraines. The final ascent through the recession moraine was particularly demanding, requiring physical endurance and teamwork. Despite the challenges, the stunning views of the surrounding peaks and the glacier itself made every effort worthwhile.

Our expedition focused on studying glacial retreat and associated hydrological changes, contributing to ongoing research on climate change impacts in the region. The Panchi Nala Glacier, with its striking yet fragile environment, provided valuable insights into the dynamics of Himalayan glaciers. This field trip was both a rigorous scientific endeavor and an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.

Based on the study by Das and Sharma (2019) titled “Glacier changes between 1971 and 2016 in the Jankar Chhu Watershed, Lahaul Himalaya, India,” published in the Journal of Glaciology:

The Dali Chu Glacier is a notable glacier within the Jankar Chhu Watershed (JCW) in the Lahaul Himalaya region of India. This glacier, like many others in the JCW, has been the subject of glaciological studies due to its significance in the region’s hydrology and its response to climatic changes.

Studies have indicated that glaciers in the JCW, including the Dali Chu Glacier, have experienced notable changes over recent decades. Between 1971 and 2016, the total glacierized area in the JCW decreased by approximately 14.7 ± 4.3 km², with an average terminus retreat rate of 4.7 ± 0.4 meters per year. These changes are attributed to factors such as glacier fragmentation and retreat, influenced by climatic variations.

I have explored several other glaciers in the Jnakar Chhu Watershed. Some of the notable glaciers are Mayar, Bagrari Glaciers. For more info, please see Das and Sharma, (2019) paper on Journal of Glaciology, published by Cambridge University Press.

The Menthosa Glacier, located in the Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh, is a significant glacial system at the foot of the towering Menthosa Peak, one of the highest peaks in the Indian Himalayas. This glacier serves as an important site for glaciological studies due to its role in regional hydrology and its response to climatic variations.

I had the opportunity to visit the Menthosa Glacier in 2016, 2017, and 2018 for a series of scientific expeditions. These visits were focused on monitoring the glacier’s health and dynamics through stake measurements, Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) surveys, and snout monitoring.

Activities Undertaken:

1. Stake Measurements: Stakes were installed at various points across the glacier to measure surface mass balance, providing critical data on snow accumulation and ice melt rates over time.

2. GPR Survey: The GPR survey was conducted to map the glacier’s internal ice structure and thickness, offering insights into its subsurface features and dynamics.

3. Snout Monitoring: Regular monitoring of the glacier’s snout helped track its retreat or advance, serving as an indicator of its response to climatic conditions.

These expeditions provided valuable data on the Menthosa Glacier’s condition, contributing to the understanding of glacial systems in the Himalayas and their sensitivity to climate change. Working amidst the strikingly beautiful yet fragile environment of the glacier was both a challenging and deeply rewarding experience.

In 2014, during my Master’s, I had the opportunity to embark on a summer trek field survey to the Mulkila Glacier, located in the Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh. The field trip was part of our academic curriculum, and we were fortunate to be guided by esteemed professors Prof. Milap Chand Sharma and Prof. Sachidanand Sinha. Our master’s batch consisted of 45 students, coming from different parts of India, each bringing their unique perspectives and expertise to the expedition.

The Mulkila Glacier, known for its pristine environment and challenging terrain, served as a perfect field site for our survey. Our primary objective was to study glacial features and dynamics, observe the glacier’s morphology, and understand its role in the region’s hydrology. The glacier is surrounded by high peaks, and its awe-inspiring beauty made the trip both educational and memorable.

Throughout the journey, we conducted various field surveys, including measuring glacial mass balance, mapping its ablation zone, and collecting data on the surrounding ecosystem. The trek also gave us a firsthand experience of the challenges that come with field-based research in high-altitude environments.

This field trip to Mulkila Glacier was not just a learning experience in glaciology but also an opportunity to bond with fellow students and faculty, strengthening our academic foundation while immersing ourselves in the wonders of the Himalayan landscape.

The Pin Parvati Pass trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Indian Himalayas, and I had the honor of leading a group on this remarkable journey. The trek, which connects the Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh to the Pin Valley in Spiti, is known for its stunning landscapes, challenging terrain, and diverse ecosystems. Starting from the lush green meadows and dense forests of the Parvati Valley, we ascended through rugged mountain landscapes, alpine meadows, and rocky terrains, all leading up to the high-altitude Pin Parvati Pass at 5,319 meters (17,450 feet).

As the leader of the trek, I ensured that our group was well-prepared for the harsh conditions we faced, including extreme cold, high-altitude environments, and unpredictable weather. The pass itself is a daunting crossing, requiring technical skills and careful navigation, but the views from the top were truly spectacular—vast stretches of snow-capped peaks and the remote Pin Valley far below.

The trek offered a blend of both natural beauty and adventure. We passed through several picturesque campsites, including the Kheerganga hot springs, which were a welcome relief after long days of trekking. The transition from the lush green Parvati Valley to the arid, barren landscapes of the Pin Valley is striking, showcasing the stark contrast between the two regions.

The journey was physically demanding but immensely fulfilling, with every step bringing new challenges and breathtaking scenery. Successfully crossing the Pin Parvati Pass and completing the trek remains one of the most unforgettable experiences of my trekking career.

The Borasu Pass trek is another high-altitude adventure that offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, challenging terrain, and a sense of remote wilderness. Located in the Himachal Pradesh region, this trek connects the Har Ki Dun valley in the Tons River Basin to the remote valley of Piti in Uttarkashi, making it a truly exceptional and lesser-known trek in the Indian Himalayas. The trek takes you through dense forests, alpine meadows, glaciers, and rugged terrains, ultimately leading up to the Borasu Pass at 5,080 meters (16,800 feet).

Throughout the trek, I had the opportunity to navigate through some of the most beautiful yet demanding environments. The landscape changes drastically, starting from the lush, green valleys, and slowly transitioning into the harsh, arid environments as you near the pass. The views from the Borasu Pass are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks and sprawling glaciers. The technical ascent to the pass was challenging, but the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top was unparalleled.

Along the way, we camped in stunning locations, including vast meadows, alongside sparkling rivers, and under starry skies. The journey was not only physically demanding but also mentally rewarding, as the trek provided an incredible sense of isolation and connection with nature. The final descent into the Piti Valley was equally challenging, but the landscape’s raw beauty, with deep gorges and barren plateaus, made every step worthwhile.

The Borasu Pass trek is one of the most remote and less-explored trekking routes, offering a true wilderness experience. Completing this trek remains a highlight of my trekking adventures, as it tested our endurance and provided a deep appreciation for the magnificence of the Himalayan ranges.

The Bali Pass trek is one of the most exciting and picturesque treks in the Indian Himalayas, offering a perfect combination of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion. Located in the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, the trek connects the Yamunotri region to the Ruinsara Valley and the Tons River. The Bali Pass, at 4,900 meters (16,076 feet), offers stunning panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the region, including Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak.

The trek begins from the town of Sankri, which is the base camp for many treks in the region, and gradually ascends through beautiful alpine meadows, dense forests, and rocky paths. The journey takes you across remote villages, allowing trekkers to experience the rich culture of the region, before heading towards the challenging and technically demanding Bali Pass. The pass itself offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding snow-covered peaks, alpine meadows, and the serene Ruinsara Lake.

What makes the Bali Pass trek special is the diversity of landscapes you encounter along the way. From lush forests and meadows, where you can spot Himalayan wildlife like musk deer and Himalayan tahrs, to the barren, rocky terrain near the pass, every stage of the trek offers a new challenge and a chance to connect with nature. The trek also offers opportunities for snow trekking, especially if you’re trekking in the winter or early spring.

The Bali Pass trek is a challenging but immensely rewarding journey that requires physical endurance, technical climbing skills, and a strong sense of adventure. The sense of achievement when you reach the top of the pass, along with the amazing views, makes the effort worthwhile. Descending into the Ruinsara Valley is equally captivating, with pristine rivers, beautiful meadows, and a sense of tranquility that encapsulates the best of Himalayan trekking.

The Rupin Pass trek is one of the most thrilling and visually stunning treks in the Indian Himalayas, offering trekkers a perfect blend of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and a sense of remote wilderness. Situated at an altitude of 4,650 meters (15,255 feet) in Uttarakhand, this trek connects the scenic villages of the Baspa Valley to the idyllic town of Sangla in Himachal Pradesh, crossing the Rupin Pass along the way.

The trek begins in the quaint village of Dhaula, located in the Baspa Valley, and takes you through a range of terrains, from lush green forests and terraced fields to alpine meadows and snow-covered landscapes. The trek’s most distinctive feature is its variety of landscapes, which offer everything from glacial rivers, charming villages, and dramatic waterfalls to dense forests with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The path also crosses several beautiful streams, offering trekkers a chance to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

The ascent to Rupin Pass is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding part of the trek. As you approach the pass, the terrain becomes more rugged and steep, with snow and ice making the final push more difficult, especially in the early spring or late autumn. However, the views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, with panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, including the towering Kinner Kailash range, and sweeping views of the surrounding valleys. The experience of standing atop the Rupin Pass, after a physically demanding climb, is truly unparalleled.

Descending from the pass, the trek continues through alpine meadows and remote villages, offering trekkers a glimpse into the traditional mountain way of life. The final descent brings you to the beautiful village of Sangla, known for its peaceful atmosphere and the stunning backdrop of the Kinner Kailash range.

The Rupin Pass trek is considered to be one of the most picturesque treks in India, offering diverse landscapes, challenging terrain, and a sense of accomplishment that makes it a must-do for avid trekkers. It is ideal for those looking for a high-altitude adventure with a variety of ecosystems and an immersive Himalayan experience.

The Bhaba Pass trek is a captivating and challenging journey that connects the Kinnaur Valley in Himachal Pradesh to the Spiti Valley, offering trekkers a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 5,160 meters (16,928 feet), the trek is known for its diverse landscapes, which range from lush forests and alpine meadows to barren, rocky terrain and snow-capped peaks. The pass itself offers stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the peaks of the Parvati and Spiti Valleys.

The trek begins from the village of Kafnu, located in the Kinnaur Valley, and takes you through a series of picturesque villages, dense forests, and river valleys, with the clear waters of the Bhaba River flowing alongside. As you ascend, the landscape begins to change, with pine and oak forests making way for rugged, high-altitude terrain. The path is marked by beautiful campsites, including the serene Bhaba River camp, where trekkers can rest and soak in the tranquil surroundings.

As you near the Bhaba Pass, the terrain becomes increasingly challenging, with rocky outcrops, boulder fields, and glaciers to navigate. The final ascent to the pass is steep and often covered in snow, requiring technical skills and proper gear, especially in the spring and autumn months. However, once you reach the top, the view is nothing short of breathtaking, with sweeping vistas of the Spiti Valley and the towering peaks of the Himalayas. The descent into Spiti is equally thrilling, with vast open valleys and barren landscapes offering a stark contrast to the lush greenery of Kinnaur.

Along the way, the trek offers a unique opportunity to experience the diverse cultures and traditions of the local villages. The remote villages in the region, such as Mulling and Tiya, provide insights into the lifestyle and customs of the people living in this rugged part of the world. The Bhaba Pass trek also passes through areas rich in flora and fauna, including the Bhaba Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a variety of species, including Himalayan monal, snow leopard, and musk deer.

The Bhaba Pass trek is ideal for experienced trekkers looking for a challenging yet rewarding adventure. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and high-altitude trekking, making it one of the most popular and sought-after treks in Himachal Pradesh.

One of my most unforgettable experiences was a desert trek at Khuri, a small village near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Khuri is famous for its serene sand dunes, making it an ideal location for desert trekking and camel rides. The trek took us through the vast Thar Desert, where the golden sands stretched as far as the eye could see, creating an almost surreal landscape.

As we trekked, the changing colors of the sand with the setting sun created breathtaking views. The highlight of the trek was spending a night in the desert under the starry sky, which was a mesmerizing experience, far from the city lights.

Khuri and its surroundings also offer a glimpse into traditional desert life, with local villages providing insight into Rajasthan’s culture and heritage. The nearby Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is another must-see, with its magnificent architecture and rich history. The blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences made the desert trek at Khuri a truly unique and enriching adventure.

In another memorable adventure during my time as the convenor of the JNU Mountaineering Club was a rock climbing expedition to Dhauj, Haryana. Dhauj is renowned for its natural rock formations and offers an excellent setting for outdoor activities like rock climbing and rappelling. The rugged landscape, characterized by granite outcrops and a variety of climbing challenges, made it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced climbers.

The Dhauj climbing experience was both thrilling and educational, as we tackled different routes, each presenting unique challenges. The nearby forests added a sense of tranquility to the adventurous atmosphere, while the camaraderie among our group made it an enriching experience. The location also offered a chance to practice techniques such as bouldering and traditional rope climbing, making it a perfect spot for honing skills in the great outdoors.

From 2017 to 2019, I had the privilege of serving as the convenor of the JNU Mountaineering Club. During this time, we organized an exciting rock climbing trek to Panchmarhi, a stunning hill station located in the Satpura Range of Madhya Pradesh. The trek was a perfect blend of adventure and nature, as we ventured through the rugged terrains for rock climbing sessions. We also hiked to various picturesque waterfalls, soaking in the natural beauty that Panchmarhi has to offer. The region’s dense forests, serene atmosphere, and fascinating rock formations provided the ideal backdrop for our outdoor activities, creating unforgettable memories.

Panchmarhi is the only hill station in Madhya Pradesh and is known for its lush greenery, historical caves, and panoramic views. As a part of the Satpura National Park, it offers a range of outdoor experiences, including hiking, trekking, and rock climbing, all set in a tranquil environment. The area is also home to several waterfalls, such as the Bee Falls and the Apsara Falls, which add to its charm. Rich in both natural beauty and cultural heritage, Panchmarhi remains a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Garbett Plateau is a stunning trekking destination in Maharashtra, offering breathtaking views of valleys and surrounding hills. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,625 feet, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. During the monsoon, the plateau transforms into a lush green haven with seasonal waterfalls and misty vistas.

I recently explored the picturesque Garbett Plateau, located near Matheran, along with my teammates and professor. Known for its lush greenery and panoramic views of the Western Ghats, the plateau offers a tranquil escape from city life. This small hiking adventure was a perfect blend of teamwork, nature appreciation, and physical activity.

In a thrilling cycling adventure, I completed a 90 km journey from Mumbai to Lonavala in just 4 hours and 30 minutes during mons0on. Accompanied by my mentor, Prof. RAAJ Ramsankaran, and my friend, Tirthankar Ghosh, this ride was a perfect blend of endurance and exploration. Traversing the scenic Western Ghats, this experience reinforced my passion for adventure and the joy of sustainable travel.

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Another memorable cycling journey took me from Mumbai to Korlai Fort, a historic coastal fort near Alibaug, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. Covering the challenging yet rewarding distance, this trip combined my love for adventure with an appreciation for India’s rich history. The Korlai Fort, known for its Portuguese origins and strategic location, was a highlight of the journey, making it an unforgettable experience.